A tragic boat accident leaves Pi stranded in the middle of the ocean on a life boat…with a tiger. Day by day he puts into practice the zoo skills he learnt from his father in order to train the tiger not to kill him. A fight for survival in more ways than one, will Pi ever see another human again?

Rating:

I’ve actually read this book twice. The first time, it was handed to me by my English teacher after I asked him to recommend some holiday reading. When I began the first few pages, I was somewhat disappointed with his choice. The narrative was slow and uninteresting, but as I got further and further into the book, I became amazed at how gripping it really was.

I’ve always admired Martel’s ability to create an entire narrative from essentially a single individual. In and amongst the flashbacks, we’re left with a lonely boy on a boat with a tiger, something which in most instances would be a short-lived story. But I marvel at the way he’s able to create a captivating and intriguing story.

It’s no surprise that this is the Booker prize winner, and even the second time round, I loved every page despite the fact that I knew what happened next. The detail in every situation is what lends Martel his unique storytelling style.

The character Pi isn’t a particular interesting or even likable individual. If I’m honest, I didn’t get on with him, but the way he handles each situation and is able to think on his feet in the face of danger is truly remarkable. I love the exploratory element of this novel and the floating island that they come across during their travels is perhaps my favourite part of the book, even if it is a little creepy.

I also love the ending. I won’t give anything away but I love how Martel is able to create an ending that makes you feel satisfied. I’m desperate to say more but I really don’t want to ruin it!

I think this is a classic novel for everyone to read at least once in their lifetimes. I’ve yet to see the film, but I don’t think it will be able to compare to the whirlwind adventure that is between the pages.